She nodded.
“Of course, ma’am. You’re welcome to remain where you are.”
Then she addressed Josh.
“Sir, I’ve already asked you to sit down. Please do so now.”
Josh looked around the cabin.
Several passengers were watching.
His face tightened.
Finally, he returned to his seat.
I picked up my book.
My hands were trembling slightly.
But for the first time that afternoon, I felt proud of myself.
I’d told the truth.
And I hadn’t apologized for it.
***
For the next thirty minutes, I enjoyed something that had seemed impossible earlier.
Peace.
My hip still ached a little.
But I could move my legs.
I finished two chapters of my book.
I even ate the small packet of pretzels I’d been saving.
Then a shadow appeared beside my row.
I looked up.
Josh.
He stood in the aisle with an expression that was supposed to look apologetic.
